The Wisdom of Insecurity

About the Author

Alan Watts, born in 1915 in Chislehurst, England, was a British philosopher, writer, and speaker who was instrumental in introducing Eastern philosophy to Western audiences. Watts was a prolific author and speaker, known for his accessible interpretations of complex philosophical ideas. He had a deep understanding of various religious traditions, especially Zen Buddhism, Taoism, and Hinduism, which he often translated into terms that Westerners could readily understand and apply to their lives.

Watts began his journey into philosophy and spirituality at a young age, influenced by Eastern religious texts and the works of influential mystics. After moving to the United States in 1938, Watts became an Episcopal priest, but he later left the ministry to focus on his studies and teachings of Eastern philosophies. Throughout his life, he authored more than 25 books and countless essays, delivered hundreds of lectures, and became one of the most influential figures in the countercultural movement of the 1960s. His works, including The Way of Zen and The Wisdom of Insecurity, continue to inspire people seeking deeper understanding of life and existence.

Main Idea

The Wisdom of Insecurity, published in 1951, is one of Alan Watts’s most significant works. In this book, Watts delves into the root causes of modern anxiety, arguing that our relentless pursuit of security is the very thing that makes us feel insecure. He posits that life is inherently uncertain and ever-changing, and any attempt to cling to permanence or security is bound to lead to anxiety and dissatisfaction. Instead, Watts suggests that we should embrace insecurity, live fully in the present moment, and let go of the illusion of control over the future.

Through his unique interpretation of both Western and Eastern philosophies, Watts encourages readers to accept the impermanence of life and find peace in the flow of existence. He challenges the conventional wisdom that happiness and security can be found in material possessions, religious dogmas, or scientific rationality. By living in the moment and embracing the unpredictability of life, Watts believes we can achieve true freedom and fulfillment.

Table of Contents

1. The Origins of Anxiety
2. Religion, Science, and Insecurity
3. How to Go With the Flow

The Origins of Anxiety

To understand how to deal with anxiety, Watts begins by exploring its root cause: insecurity. He defines insecurity as the state of being impermanent and vulnerable to change, which he argues is a fundamental quality of existence. According to Watts, life is in a constant state of flux, with each moment passing and giving way to the next. This inherent impermanence means that any attempt to achieve security or permanence is ultimately futile.